Mathematics

At NMS, mathematics is taught in German in grades 1-6. In grades 5 and 6, students are also prepared for mathematics classes held in English as the subject is partly taught in English in the secondary school. In the six Flex classes of the Eingangsstufe, mathematics is taught in a mixed age group setting. First and second graders learn together. The mathematics textbook Zahlenzauber, published by Oldenbourg, is used in grades 1-4. In grades 5-6, students use mathe live, published by Klett. The maths lessons follow the requirements of the Berlin curriculum. In addition, the Mathematics Faculty has agreed on minimum requirements for students finishing grade 2, 4 and 6. These minimum requirements are a useful guideline for assigning new students to their grade level. If these requirements are not met, the student’s future success in mathematics is at risk.

At NMS, all subjects are taught in an interdisciplinary way. In mathematics, the emphasis is placed on integrating the subject into the students’ project work (see also page 6 in the Newsletter 11/2009). For example, students are introduced to the concepts of litre and millilitre by measuring the volume of water and recording the results (topic: Water); students compare the population of Berlin suburbs (topic: Where do I live); or create diagrams to document their loss of baby teeth (topic: My Body). In order to cater for students’ different learning paths and approaches, concrete materials and attractive practice materials are used to support students individually (see page 4 in Newsletter 5/2009).

In the school year 2012-2013 a lending system for measurement boxes has been put in place. These boxes are topic-specific (length, weight, capacity measures, money and time) and can be borrowed by the mathematics classes. A similar system for project-oriented geometry is currently under development. Grades 1-4 regularly work with Blitzrechnen (from publishing house Klett), a computer program to support individual oral numeracy skills. The use of interactive whiteboards for mathematics at NMS is increasing. The application of interactive mathematical resources is a matter of continuous development.

From third grade on, NMS students participate in the worldwide mathematics competition Känguru-Wettbewerb. This is a mathematical multiple-choice competition, in which more than 4.5 million students from both European and non-European countries take part. The competition aims to nurture a love for mathematics and mathematical thinking and a passion for working mathematically (http://www.mathe-kaenguru.de/).